Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Steroid-Induced Osteoporosis

Overview

Many people take oral or inhaled steroid medicines for conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These medicines include beclomethasone, flunisolide, and prednisone. The oral kind and the high-dose inhaled kind can cause bone loss over time. If you are on these types of medicines for 6 months or longer, you are at increased risk for osteoporosis. This puts you at high risk for broken bones. If you do break a bone, healing can take a long time because osteoporosis reduces your bones' ability to rebuild.

If you use steroid medicines long-term, you should be watched for bone loss.

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

News & Events

View All

How Your Lifestyle Could Be Impacting Your Fertility

The frustrating and sad effects of a couple who has been attempting to start a family is hard to describe. One moment they want to give up,

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube

Phone

Schedule an Appointment Online